Alexander Zverev secured the U.S. Open men’s singles title by defeating Ben Shelton in four sets on Sunday. This victory marks Zverev’s second Grand Slam win, with his first earlier this year at the French Open.
Entering as the No. 1 seed for the first time in a Grand Slam, Zverev took advantage of Shelton’s uncertain start in his first major final. He executed a near-perfect tiebreaker on serve and held off Shelton’s effort to rally, winning the match 6-3, 7-6 (2), 5-7, 6-2.
Despite the crowd’s support for the American contender, Zverev’s performance remained strong. Shelton had reached the final by defeating fellow American Frances Tiafoe in an exciting semifinal. He aimed to be the first American male to capture a major title since Andy Roddick in 2003, and also the first Black American man to reach a U.S. Open final since Arthur Ashe in 1972.
Zverev’s dominant form in major tournaments this year was evident. Interestingly, he didn’t initially realize he had won upon completing the match on his serve. He began to move behind the baseline, preparing for a return, and only moments later celebrated his accomplishment by raising his arms.
The tournament took place at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens, New York. Alexander Zverev celebrated his win on Sunday, September 13, 2026.
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